Expert Contributor: Choosing the Right Contractor

by Tom Rafferty of Rafferty Painting & General Contracting

Choosing the right contractor to either build, remodel or even paint your home can make the difference between a relatively stress-free project and countless sleepless nights. Here are some simple steps you can take to ensure that your contractor is capable enough to get the job done.

While you may think that finding a good contractor is just common sense, you should be aware of the real risks that come with choosing poorly. People do more research when buying a car than they do when choosing a contractor.

Don't get conned

On one hand, there are many horror stories of homeowners who were conned into paying for renovations that either never happened or were completely botched due to gross negligence. In fact, over the past few years, consumer complaints against home construction and renovation contractors have been on the rise. Even if a contractor seems sincere and is offering you a “great deal” or you are being asked to pay upfront without first taking care of the legal formalities, watch out.

Workers' Compensation

Probably the most important question you need to ask is whether they have Workers' Compensation insurance or not. Many people are not aware that if a contractor does not carry Workers' Compensation and an employee injures himself on their property, then they are liable and will be sued.

Questions to ask, to determine a Contractor's credibility

• Ensure the contractor has sufficient liability insurance should a problem arise, around $1 million in liability coverage.

• Ask for references and take a look at the work they have done. If you can't verify references, that's a red flag.

• Ask about their employees: how many people are on their crew and how long they’ve been with the company. In addition, ask if they have their own employees or if it will be subcontract work.

• Ask if there will be a full-time foreman on the project.

• Ask if they have staff in the office to answer any questions you may have. It’s important that the contractor be a phone call away.

• Find out if they have a state license or local licenses.

• Ask if they belong to any professional organizations related to their business. This will speak to their reputation, local credibility and the level of commitment they have in their business.

Compare apples to apples

When the price is too good to be true, it usually is. Most importantly, remember this:

Quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten."

PAINTING & GENERAL CONTRACTING

Residential and Commercial

Interior/Exterior Painting Specialties: Custom Colors, Wallpapering, Waterproof Coatings

General Contracting expertise includes Additions/Remodels, Kitchens, Baths, Flooring, Carpentry, Tile, Windows, Doors and More!

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Soft roof washing, Removal of mold, mildew and dirt

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